The Seek2Sea Animal Training Apprenticeship offers a paid 22-week work-based learning experience to train early-career individuals in the skills, knowledge, and expertise needed to enter the marine science field in animal care. The goal of Seek2Sea is to reduce barriers to entry-level animal care employment opportunities in marine science for communities of Greater Boston (including Boston, Revere, Somerville, Cambridge, Quincy, Malden, and Chelsea) by establishing a career pathway that combines hands-on training, professional development, and marine science learning opportunities.
- Apprentices will work closely with experienced animal care professionals to learn the skills needed to care for the animals in the New England Aquarium's care.
- They will learn husbandry, training, and enrichment techniques used to enhance the care and well-being of our sea lions and seals, and general exhibit maintenance.
- This position is intended for applicants with pre-entry level skills and experience in an animal care setting – those with no prior animal care experience are encouraged to apply.
- This is a full-time, temporary, on-site position.
- The position is scheduled to run from April 2026 through August 2026, with some flexibility on the start date.
- Apprentices will work 5, 8 hour days each week including a weekend day.
- Hours will be 8a – 5p EST for the first 11 weeks of the apprenticeship, and 7a – 4p for the final 11 weeks of the apprenticeship.
Apprentices will be trained in the following duties and responsibilities:
- Developing knowledge in the biology, history, and ecology of natural habitats for assigned aquatic species
- Providing daily care for animals and facility, including food preparation, feeding, medication distribution, cleaning, and enclosure maintenance
- Developing knowledge in basic behavior, training, and enrichment concepts to assist trainers during training sessions and presentations
- Observing and documenting the behaviors for assigned species
- Recognizing typical and abnormal behaviors and characteristics of assigned species
- Engaging visitors, guests, and the public in presentations, behind the scenes tours, and Q&A sessions
- Maintaining written and electronic records and submitting entries via NEAQ's specimen database system TRACKS© - this may include both narrative notes and numerical data.
- Upholding a high standard of animal welfare, including identifying signs of animal distress and following NEAq protocols
- Engaging in ongoing learning and professional development sessions, including e-learning modules, bi-weekly apprentice learning sessions, projects, and off-site learning experiences
Apprentices will receive:
- Pay rate: $17.60 per hour
- Paid learning opportunities, including hands-on training, e-learning modules, and additional courses
- On-site meal allowance
- Monthly LinkPass (for subway and bus use; other commuting expenses will not be subsidized)
- Opportunities for institutional and industry networking
- Job placement support upon completion of the apprentice program
- Qualifications
Minimum Requirements
- High School Diploma or equivalent experience
- Must reside in Greater Boston (including Revere, Somerville, Cambridge, Quincy, Malden, and Chelsea)
- A strong interest in a career in Marine Science, Animal Training, or Animal Care
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Motivated with a strong commitment to learning
- Willing to accept instruction and feedback
- Interest in developing strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills
- Ability to maintain collaborative working relationships with colleagues
- Effective written and verbal communication skills
- Able to work independently as well as collaboratively
- Able to lift 50 pounds, climb multiple flights of stairs, and use small ladders
- Able to work in confined spaces of varying temperature, light, and sound levels
- Willing to actively participate in daily animal care duties, including food preparation, handling raw fish, exhibit cleaning, and maintenance
- For more information and to apply online please visit: http://neaq.applicantpro.com/jobs/
- The New England Aquarium is committed to an inclusive workplace culture and is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer, as defined by the EEOC. Here, we foster a culture of respect and inclusion. We strive to engage and inspire a broad audience with our efforts to protect the blue planet. We believe that an inclusive workforce provides diverse experiences, skills, and perspectives that enrich our programs, strengthen problem-solving, add creativity, and enhance our workplace culture.
Salary
- $17.60 / hour
